2. Early brain development research
Biological and social scientists have made significant advances in understanding how experience-based brain development in the early years affects learning, behaviour and mental and physical health. Our earliest experiences, beginning at conception, shape our brain and biological systems for life” (McCain et al., 2011, p. 27).
Neuroscience research underscores the importance of early experience. Technology has made a big difference in how we understand the brain.
In the following video, Dr. Charles Nelson explains some of the tools used in his laboratory.
Dr. Meghan Azad, a research scientist at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, describes some of the methods of data collection used in her research. Note the use of technology, and how data collection was adapted during the pandemic.
The next reading is an issue of Early Childhood in Focus. It provides an excellent overview of brain architecture, discusses brain imaging methods and provides examples of research with related policy questions.
Now review the material in this reading with the following review quiz.
